There’s been a bitter cold snap through the area lately. Temperatures down in the 20’s below zero accompanied by high winds. Old Man Winter has risen to provide a bit of reality to a so-far mild winter. That’s always how weather works out, wait a little while and it will change.
Cold has continually provided difficulties to survival, whether for humans or animals. Generally cold temperatures join forces with snow to provide both a beautiful and challenging landscape. It is often hard to realize that only in the last couple of generations that houses been centrally heated. In the very recent past, houses would have one or two wood stoves or fireplaces to provide heat. It was not uncommon to wear multiple layers indoors.
There is something companionable about an open fire, particularly in cold weather. It becomes a gathering point as well as a bit of warmth. When camping in winter, fire becomes even more important as a way to cook food and to heat beverages. It harkens back to a time when open fire was the only heat and the only cooking method. That open fire can provide a connection to that way of life in the past and an enjoyable respite to the cold.
There is something mesmerizing about an open fire. It is informative that many modern home wood stoves have glass fronts, so that the people can enjoy the open fire appearance. A fire is king in the winter woods; providing safety, warmth, and a place to gather. There are many happy memories of shared winter fires with close companions. Those fires provided comfort at the time and pleasant memories of a shared camp. Winter is a wonderful time to be in the woods, especially when one has the tools and experience to kindle an open fire.